Being the early stage of the academic year, we are reminded that this is why people go to university. Tertiary education usually involves a lot of reading about, and listening to different perspectives on an issue. It is less important to agree than to understand where people are coming from. Teachers are often acknowledged by their peers as being knowledgeable about the subjects they specialise in. It is true that just because someone has gone to university doesn’t mean they are smarter than you, but they have probably read a lot more about a particular field than you have.

Gun control is an emotional issue in the US. Thankfully it is not something of concern here in Australia. There is a good joke about how one has to worry about the many things that can kill the unsuspecting Australian. Assault rifles isn’t one of them. It is quite fascinating to hear the leader of the free world suggesting that one solution to gun violence in schools is arming teachers. Seriously? We can’t smack kids in schools but it is sometimes ok to shoot them? Surely there must be a better way to deal with gun violence in schools! What do psychologists and sociologist say about solving this issue? Do we not listen to them because they aren’t famous or important?

Or is it because it is such an emotional subject. Generally, the more emotional we get, the less rational we become. The bible reminds us to seek wisdom. Proverbs 18:2 (NIV)  reminds us that, “Fools find no pleasure in understanding but delight in airing their own opinions”, and “My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” (James 1:19 NIV).